Sleeping System with Interchangeable Panels

ABSTRACT

A bed assembly is provided that comprises a frame and a mattress member array. The mattress member array includes a plurality of discrete, resiliently compressible mattress segment members. The frame defines a plurality of upwardly opening support sockets sized and shaped to mateably receive an associated one of the mattress segment members therein. A support surface for at least one person is formed when each of the support sockets holds one associated mattress segment member therein.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/744,329, filed Sep. 24, 2012;and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/795,538, filed Oct.19, 2012, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

SCOPE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a sleeping system for providing asupport surface for at least one person. In particular, the inventionprovides a bed assembly that includes a number of discrete mattresssegment members that are insertable into a support frame and whichallows a user or manufacturer to customize individual areas of thesupport surface to vary one or more of softness, materials,compressibility, and thickness. Such mattress segment members can beeasily reorganized and replaced as desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a support surfacecomprising a number of discrete mattress segment members that can bereplaced as desired. In one preferred embodiment, the mattress segmentmembers are substantially modular in design so as to be interchangeable.Optionally, the mattress segment members can be of variable firmness,such that the firmness of each area of the support surface can beselected independently of the firmness of the other areas. This allows auser to select a support surface that provides their preferred firmnessand comfort. In embodiments of the invention where the support surfacecan accommodate two persons, each person is able to select a desiredfirmness independently of the other person.

In another preferred application, the bed assembly of the invention canbe used to treat patients for whom a more or less rigid support surfaceis desired. A good sleeping surface should provide support for thenatural curves and alignment of the spine. Experts say that the specifictype and firmness level of a sleeping surface that will provide thegreatest comfort varies from person to person. In general, experts agreethat a sleeping surface should allow the spine to assume the samenatural curve when a person is lying down as when that person isstanding. A sleeping surface that is too hard will force the spine intoan unnatural position, while one that is too soft will sag and fail toprovide adequate support.

Accordingly, further preferred embodiments of the bed assembly of thepresent invention may be beneficial to health, and may be useful in homeand/or clinical cases where one desires to correct defects in thevertebral column acquired through prolonged use of too soft or too hardsleeping surfaces. In non-limiting preferred constructions, the bedassembly of the present invention is designed to allow a person toselect a desired sleeping surface support profile which may help toprevent ailments of the spine that are caused by undesirable sleepingsurfaces from originating or becoming aggravated.

In one non-limiting preferred construction, a firmness profile of thesupport surface is selected in consultation with a doctor, chiropractor,physiotherapist, or other qualified health professional. The firmnessprofile is preferably selected in view of the unique shape and sleeprequirements of the user. For example, the optimal firmness profile maydepend on the sleeping style of the user, such as whether the user tendsto sleep on his or her front, back, or side. Furthermore, the height,weight, and physical conditioning of the user may be relevant factors inselecting the optimal firmness profile. A firmness profile that isselected according to an individual's specific needs may help to providea more restful and comfortable sleep.

In another non-limiting preferred construction, the firmness profile ofthe sleeping surface is selected to provide optimal spinal alignment toa user while sleeping or resting. In particular, the firmness profile ispreferably selected to provide the optimal support to each region of theuser's spinal column, including the cervical curve, the thoracic curve,the lumbar curve, and the sacral curve. Achieving such an optimalfirmness profile may, in some cases, be useful in ameliorating and/orpreventing back pain.

In one possible hospital or institutional use, individual mattresssegment members that become contaminated with blood or other fluids, forexample, can be easily replaced without requiring the entire supportsurface to be replaced. These individual mattress segment members canthen be washed and/or sterilized and reused, or disposed of as required.

In an optional embodiment, the bed assembly is equipped with a coverthat can be removed and washed or replaced, and a filter that is dustmite resistant and will not support mildew or bacteria.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a bed assemblywith structural flexibility which, in preferred embodiments, is capableof allowing a person to adjust a sleeping surface to the desired comfortwithout interfering with the comfort selected by a bed mate.

To achieve at least some of the foregoing objects, the present inventionprovides a bed assembly comprising a frame and a mattress member array,the mattress member array including a plurality of mattress segmentmembers, panels, or blocks, and the frame having a plurality of upwardlyopening support sockets, recesses, cavities, or the like. Each of thesupport sockets is shaped and sized to mateably receive the lowerportion of an associated one of said mattress segment members therein,such that a support surface for at least one person is formed when eachof the support sockets holds one associated mattress member therein. Thenumber, size and shape of the support sockets can vary from one bedassembly to another. These can be varied, for example, depending on thesize of the support surface, or the desired comfort of a person usingthe support surface. The mattress segment members can be made ofvariable materials and densities as desired. Although not essential,each of the mattress segment members is provided with a modular designof similar shape and size so as to be interchangeable. In addition, eachof the mattress segment members optionally has a related pre-selecteddegree of firmness. Preferably, not all of the mattress segment membersin the mattress member array have the same degree of firmness. By mixand matching mattress segment members with support sockets, manydifferent support surfaces can be provided, with different firmnessprofiles. This allows the user or users of the bed assembly to selectthe desired support profile. For example, in a hospital setting thesupport surface could be selected to accommodate the particular needsand comfort preferences of a first patient. When this first patientleaves the hospital, the support surface can be easily modified toselect a firmness profile as required or preferred by a second patient.Furthermore, should one of the mattress segment members becomecontaminated with body fluids, such as blood, the contaminated mattresssegment member can be easily replaced, without having to replace theentire support surface.

In optional constructions, the support surface can accommodate more thanone person, preferably two persons. The support surface may include twosupport regions for supporting the two persons, each support regionhaving a firmness profile. Preferably, the firmness profile of eachsupport region can be selected independently of the firmness profileselected for the other support region. This allows a first user of thesupport surface to select their desired firmness profile withoutinterfering with the preferred firmness profile of the second user ofthe support surface.

In one construction, the support surface formed by the mattress segmentmembers held in the support sockets produces an irregular top surface,with gaps between the mattress segment members where the sidewalls ofthe support sockets are located. Although not essential, the bedassembly further includes a comfort panel that is sized and shaped tosubstantially cover the support surface, and which provides asubstantially uniform top surface when placed thereon. The comfort panelmay be of variable thickness.

In one embodiment the mattress segment members are held in the supportsockets by gravity. Alternatively, the mattress segment members may beheld in the support sockets solely or additionally by friction, or by aphysical connection such as a fastener, clip, hook and loop connector orotherwise.

Each of the mattress segment members preferably have unique colorcoding, with the color of the mattress segment member indicating itsrelated degree of firmness. This feature allows for the bed assembly tobe very quickly adapted to the desired firmness profile, as the relateddegree of firmness of each mattress segment member can be very quicklyidentified.

In one construction, the bed assembly of the invention may be completelydisassembled into its component parts, and rebuilt as desired.

The bed assembly of the present invention is, in one non-limitingconstruction, for use in a hospital. In a hospital setting, the filtercan protect the sleeping surface from contamination with body fluids,mildew, bacteria, parasites or other contaminants. Furthermore, theinterchangeable mattress segment members allow individual mattresssegment members to be replaced when contaminated with, for example, bodyfluids, without requiring an entire mattress to be replaced.Furthermore, the support surface can be readily adapted to differentpreferred firmness profiles dependant upon the patient who is using thesupport surface at any given time.

Although not essential, the bed assembly may include more mattresssegment members then there are support sockets. The extra mattresssegment members allow for greater flexibility in selecting the desiredsleeping surface, such that the firmness selected for each section ofthe sleeping surface can be selected independently of the firmnessselected for each other section of the sleeping surface.

Accordingly, in one aspect the present invention resides in a bedassembly, comprising a frame and a mattress member array; said mattressmember array comprising a plurality of discrete mattress segmentmembers, each of the mattress segment members being resilientlycompressible between an uncompressed state and an at least partiallycompressed state, and comprising: an upper portion with an uppersurface, and a lower portion with a lower surface; said frame comprisinga mattress member receptacle, said mattress member receptacle defining aplurality of upwardly opening support sockets having generally verticalsidewalls; said generally vertical sidewalls having an uppermost edge;said support sockets being shaped and sized to mateably receive thelower portion of an associated one of said mattress segment memberstherein, such that the upper surface of said associated mattress segmentmember is above the uppermost edge of the vertical sidewalls when saidassociated mattress segment member is in the at least partiallycompressed state; and wherein when the lower portion of said mattresssegment members are positioned in the associated support sockets, theupper surface of the mattress segment members forms a support surfacefor supporting at least one person thereon.

In one embodiment, each of said mattress segment members is of a similarsize and shape, so as to be interchangeable.

In another embodiment, each of said mattress segment members has apreselected degree of firmness, and at least two of the mattress segmentmembers have different degrees of firmness; said support surfaceincluding one or more support regions.

In a further embodiment, the support regions include: a first saidsupport region for supporting a first person in a resting positionreclined thereon, and a second said support region for supporting asecond person in a resting position reclined thereon.

In a still further embodiment, spacing between adjacent ones of saidmattress segment members forms the support surface as a non-continuoussurface; said bed assembly further comprising a resiliently compressiblecomfort panel shaped and sized to substantially cover saidnon-continuous surface.

In a preferred embodiment, the bed assembly further comprises aremovable cover, said cover being formed from a washable fabric andhaving releasably connectable top and bottom sections; said cover beingshaped and sized to substantially contain said frame with said mattresssegment members mounted therein.

In a further preferred embodiment, the cover further includes a topsheet releasably connectable to the top section and forming a filtercompartment therebetween; said bed assembly further comprising aflexible filter panel sized for placement in said filter compartment;wherein the placement of the filter panel in the filter compartmentprotects the support surface from contamination by at least one of bodyfluids, dust mites, bacteria, and parasites.

In an especially preferred embodiment, each of said support regionsincludes a cervical support area; a thoracic support area; a lumbarsupport area; and a sacral support area; and wherein the mattresssegment members in each of the cervical support area, the thoracicsupport area, the lumbar support area, and the sacral support area areindependently selectable.

In a further non-limiting construction, said frame further comprises abase, said base positioned below and supporting said mattress memberreceptacle.

In one embodiment said bed assembly is a hospital bed assembly.

In another aspect, the present invention resides in a bed assembly,comprising a frame and a mattress member array; said mattress memberarray comprising a plurality of discrete mattress segment members; eachof the mattress segment members being resiliently compressible betweenan uncompressed state and an at least partially compressed state, andcomprising an upper portion with an upper surface and a lower portionwith a lower surface; each of the mattress segment members having apreselected degree of firmness, and at least two of the mattress segmentmembers having different degrees of firmness; said frame comprising amattress member receptacle, said mattress member receptacle defining aplurality of upwardly opening support sockets having generally verticalsidewalls, said generally vertical sidewalls having an uppermost edge,said support sockets being shaped and sized to mateably receive thereinin friction-fit the lower portion of one said mattress segment membertherein, such that the upper surface of said one mattress segment memberis above the uppermost edge of the vertical sidewalls when said onemattress segment member is in the at least partially compressed state;and wherein when the lower portion of said mattress segment members arepositioned in the support sockets, the upper surface of the mattresssegment members forms a support surface for supporting at least oneperson in a resting position reclined thereon.

In one embodiment, said support surface includes: a first support regionfor supporting a first person in a resting position reclined thereon;and a second support region for supporting a second person in a restingposition reclined thereon.

In a preferred embodiment, the support surface includes a cervicalsupport area; a thoracic support area; a lumbar support area; and asacral support area; and wherein the mattress segment members in each ofthe cervical support area, the thoracic support area, the lumbar supportarea, and the sacral support area are independently selectable.

In a further preferred embodiment, the bed assembly further comprises aremovable cover, said cover being formed from a washable fabric andhaving releasably connectable top and bottom sections; said cover beingshaped and sized to substantially contain said frame with said mattresssegment members mounted therein.

In another embodiment, the cover further includes a top sheet releasablyconnectable to the top section and forming a filter compartmenttherebetween; said bed assembly further comprising a flexible, washable,and reusable filter panel sized for placement in said filtercompartment; wherein the placement of the filter panel in the filtercompartment protects the support surface from contamination by at leastone of body fluids, dust mites, bacteria, and parasites.

In a still further preferred embodiment, each of said mattress segmentmembers is of a similar size and shape, so as to be interchangeable.

In a further aspect, the present invention resides in a bed assembly,comprising a frame, a mattress member array, a resiliently compressiblecomfort panel, a removable cover formed from a washable fabric, and aflexible filter panel; said mattress member array comprising a pluralityof discrete mattress segment members; each of the mattress segmentmembers being resiliently compressible between an uncompressed state andan at least partially compressed state, and comprising an upper portionwith an upper surface and a lower portion with a lower surface; each ofthe mattress segment members being of a similar size and shape; and eachof said mattress segment members having a preselected degree offirmness, at least two of the mattress segment members having differentdegrees of firmness; said frame comprising a base and a mattress memberreceptacle, said base positioned below and supporting said mattressmember receptacle, said mattress member receptacle defining a pluralityof upwardly opening support sockets having generally vertical sidewalls,said generally vertical sidewalls having an uppermost edge, said supportsockets being shaped and sized to mateably receive the lower portion ofany one of said mattress segment members therein, such that the uppersurface of said one mattress segment member is above the uppermost edgeof the vertical sidewalls when said one mattress segment member is inthe at least partially compressed state; wherein when the lower portionof said mattress segment members are positioned in the support sockets,the upper surface of the mattress segment members forms a supportsurface for supporting at least one person thereon; said support surfaceincluding one or more support regions; said comfort panel shaped andsized to substantially cover said support surface when positionedthereon; said cover comprising a top section, a bottom section, and atop sheet, said top and bottom sections being releasably connectable toeach other, said top sheet being releasably connectable to said topsection and forming a filter compartment therebetween; said cover beingshaped and sized to substantially contain said frame with said mattresssegment members mounted therein and said comfort panel positionedthereon; said filter panel sized for placement in said filtercompartment; wherein the placement of the filter panel in the filtercompartment protects the comfort panel and the support surface fromcontamination by at least one of body fluids, dust mites, bacteria, andparasites.

In a preferred embodiment, the support regions include: a first saidsupport region for supporting a first person in a resting positionreclined thereon, and a second said support region for supporting asecond person in a resting position reclined thereon.

In one non-limiting construction, each of the mattress segment membershas an associated color indicating the degree of firmness of themattress segment member.

In an especially preferred embodiment, each of said support regionsincludes a cervical support area, a thoracic support area, a lumbarsupport area, and a sacral support area; and wherein the mattresssegment members in each of the cervical support area, the thoracicsupport area, the lumbar support area, and the sacral support area areindependently selectable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purposes of providing a better understanding of the principlesof the invention, reference is now made to preferred embodimentsillustrated in the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a bed assembly;

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the bed assembly shown in FIG. 1taken along line 2-2′;

FIG. 3 shows a partially exploded view of a mattress supportsubassembly;

FIG. 4 shows a side view of mattress segment members in compressed anduncompressed states;

FIG. 5 shows a partially exploded view of a mattress support subassemblyand a comfort panel;

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a mattress support subassembly with acomfort panel placed thereon;

FIG. 7A shows a cross-sectional view of the mattress support subassemblyshown in FIG. 5 taken along line 4-4′;

FIG. 7B shows a cross-sectional view of the mattress support subassemblyand comfort panel shown in FIG. 6 taken along line 6-6′;

FIG. 8 shows a partially assembled bed assembly with a filter panelbeing placed therein;

FIG. 9 shows a top view of a filter panel;

FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a mattress segment member with aspring core;

FIG. 11 shows a human vertebral column; and

FIG. 12 shows a partial view of a support region of a bed assembly withmattress segment members arranged to provide support to a humanvertebral column.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference may first be had to FIG. 1, which illustrates a bed assembly10 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. The bedassembly 10 is shown as assembled to form a covered bed 12. FIG. 2 showsa cross-section of the bed assembly 10 depicted in FIG. 1, taken alongline 2-2′. As is best shown in FIG. 2, the bed assembly 10 comprises amattress support subassembly 14, a foam comfort pad or panel 16, afilter panel 18, and an outer cover 20.

FIG. 3 shows best a partially exploded view of the mattress supportsubassembly 14. The mattress support subassembly 14 comprises a frame 22and a mattress member array 24. The mattress member array 24 comprises aplurality of discrete mattress segment members 26.

As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the mattress segment members 26 aregenerally rectangular six sided foam blocks, each with an upper portion28 having an upper surface 30, and a lower portion 32 having a lowersurface 34. Each mattress segment member 26 has a height 36, a width 38,and a length 40. The mattress segment members 26 are resilientlycompressible, with each having an uncompressed height 36 u when in anuncompressed state I, and a compressed height 36 c when in asubstantially compressed state II. Each of the mattress segment members26 are of substantially the same size and shape so as to beinterchangeable. Preferably, the height 36 of the mattress segmentmembers 26 is in the range of 10 cm to 50 cm; the width 38 of themattress segment members 26 is in the range of 30 cm to 110 cm; and thelength 40 of the mattress segment members 26 is in the range of 30 cm to55 cm. More preferably, the height 36 of the mattress segment members 26is in the range of 15 cm to 40 cm; the width 38 of the mattress segmentmembers 26 is in the range of 45 cm to 100 cm; and the length 40 of themattress segment members 26 is in the range of 45 cm to 55 cm.

The mattress segment members 26 in the mattress member array 24 do notall have the same degree of firmness. Although the mattress member array24 may include mattress segment members 26 with any desired number ofdegrees of firmness to choose from, preferably there are at least fivedifferent degrees of firmness (for example, gentle support, mediumsupport, medium firm support, firm support, and extra firm support). Aswill be described, this feature allows a user or manufacturer tocustomize the bed assembly 10 to provide the desired comfort andsupport. As shown in FIG. 4, the mattress segment member 26.1 has afirst color 42, and the mattress segment member 26.2 has a second color44. The first color 42 indicates that mattress segment member 26.1 has afirst degree of firmness, and the second color 44 indicates that themattress segment member 26.2 has a second degree of firmness. This colorcoding allows the firmness of a mattress segment member 26 to beascertained quickly and easily.

As shown in FIG. 3, the frame 22 is provided as a wooden supportstructure comprising a mattress member receptacle 46 and a base 48. Thebase 48 is positioned below and supporting the mattress memberreceptacle 46. The base 48 and the mattress member receptacle 46 meet atcontact point 50 and are tightly joined to each other to form one stableunit. The mattress member receptacle 46 defines a number of upwardlyopening support sockets 52 having generally vertical sidewalls 54 and aclosed bottom 56. The support sockets 52 each have a width 58 and alength 60. Each sidewall 54 has a height 62 and an uppermost edge 64(best shown in FIG. 7A).

The support sockets 52 are sized and shaped to each mateably receive thelower portion 32 of a mattress segment member 26 therein. The width 58and length 60 of the support sockets 52 are selected to substantiallycorrespond to the width 38 and length 40 of the mattress segment members26. This allows the support sockets 52 to each securely accommodate amattress segment member 26 therein. Preferably, the width 58 of thesupport sockets 52 is in the range of 30 cm to 110 cm; and the length 60of the support sockets 52 is in the range of 30 cm to 55 cm. Morepreferably, the width 58 of the support sockets 52 is in the range of 45cm to 100 cm; and the length 60 of the support sockets 52 is in therange of 45 cm to 55 cm.

The sidewalls 54 are designed to hold the mattress segment members 26 inplace, and prevent them from shifting while the bed assembly 10 is inuse. The height 62 of the sidewalls 54 is selected to be lower than thecompressed height 36 c of the mattress segment members 26. As will bedescribed, this allows for a more comfortable sleep by ensuring that theweight of a person lying on the bed assembly 10 is supported by theresiliently compressible mattress segment members 26, rather than thehard, wooden sidewalls 54. The height 62 of the sidewalls 54 ispreferably in the range of 8 cm to 48 cm. More preferably, the height 62of the sidewalls 54 is in the range of 13 cm to 38 cm.

As shown by the arrows in FIG. 3, the mattress segment members 26 a-hare to be received by the support sockets 52 a-h, respectively. However,as each of the mattress segment members 26 are of substantially the samesize and shape, it is possible for any mattress segment member 26 to bereceived by any support socket 52.

When the lower portion 32 of a mattress segment member 26 is received bya support socket 52, the upper surface 30 of the mattress segment member26 sits above the uppermost edge 64 of the sidewalls 54 (best shown inFIG. 7A). A support surface 66 for supporting two people is formed whena mattress segment member 26 is held in each of the support sockets 52of the mattress member receptacle 46 (best shown in FIG. 5). Having theupper surface 30 of the mattress segment members 26 above the uppermostedge 64 of the sidewalls 54 ensures that the weight of a person layingon the support surface 66 is supported by the resiliently compressiblemattress segment members 26, and not the hard, wooden sidewalls 54. Thisallows for a more comfortable sleep.

The support surface 66 has a length 68 and a width 70. Preferably, thesupport surface 66 has a length 68 in the range of 135 cm to 215 cm; anda width 70 in the range of 65 cm to 210 cm. More preferably, the supportsurface 66 has a length 68 in the range of 190 cm to 205 cm; and a width70 in the range of 95 cm to 190 cm.

As is best shown in FIG. 5, the support surface 66 includes two supportregions 72, each sized to accommodate one person laying thereon. Each ofthe support regions 72 comprises four mattress segment members 26 placedwithin four support sockets 52. Each support region 72 has a firmnessprofile that is dependent on the degree of firmness of each of themattress segment members 26 in the support region 72. For example, thefirmness profile of the support region 72 a shown in FIG. 5 isdetermined by the degree of firmness of each of the mattress segmentmembers 26 a-d held in support sockets 52 a-d. As will be described, thefeatures of the bed assembly 10 allow the firmness profile of eachsupport region 72 to be selected independently.

The mattress support subassembly 14 is designed to allow the users ofthe bed assembly 10 to select a support surface 66 with their desiredlevel of support and comfort. By selecting mattress segment members 26with the desired degree of firmness, the users of the bed assembly 10can design and create an individualized support surface 66. For example,a user may wish to have a sleeping surface 66 that supports the headwith a mattress segment member 26 of one degree of firmness, andsupports the rest of the body with mattress segment members 26 ofanother degree of firmness.

Furthermore, if the user of the bed assembly 10 wants to try a differentconfiguration of mattress segment members 26, the mattress segmentmembers 26 can be easily reorganized as desired. Because the mattresssegment members 26 are interchangeable, the mattress segment members 26in one support socket 52 can be easily swapped with a mattress segmentmember 26 in another support socket 52. Furthermore, as the mattresssegment members 26 are color coded, the degree of firmness of each canbe ascertained quickly and easily, facilitating the process ofdesigning, creating, and reorganizing the desired support surface 66.

Preferably, the mattress member array 24 includes more mattress segmentmembers 26 than there are support sockets 52 in the mattress memberreceptacle 46. More preferably, the mattress member array 24 includes atleast as many mattress segment members 26 of each degree of firmness asthere are support sockets 52 in the mattress member receptacle 46. Thisallows for greater customizability, as the degree of firmness of themattress segment member 26 in each support socket 52 can be selectedindependently of the degree of firmness of the mattress segment members26 in the other support sockets 52. This would allow the two peopleusing the mattress support subassembly 14 shown in FIG. 5 to each selecttheir desired firmness profile for their respective support regions 72independently of each other. In this way, the present invention allowstwo people with different needs and/or preferences with respect to bedcomfort and support to share the bed assembly 10, while still gettingtheir desired comfort and support.

In an optional application, the bed assembly 10 is for use in ahospital. The mattress support subassembly 14 is particularlyadvantageous in the hospital setting, in that the individual mattresssegment members 26 can be easily removed, washed, replaced, or disposedof as required. In a hospital setting, body fluids such as blood canfrequently come in contact with hospital beds. When a standard mattressbecomes contaminated with blood, the entire mattress may need to beremoved and replaced, even if only a small area of the mattress isaffected. It may also be difficult to clean a standard mattress, as theyare generally large in size and cannot be accommodated by smallercleaning machines. In contrast, in the bed assembly 10 of the presentinvention, only the individual mattress segment members 26 that becomecontaminated with blood need to be removed. These can then be easilyreplaced with individual mattress segment members 26, without requiringall of the mattress segment members 26 to be replaced. Furthermore, asthe mattress segment members 26 are of smaller size than a standardmattress, they are much more easily accommodated by smaller cleaningmachines, such as standard washing machines for bedding and clothing.

In the course of a year, a hospital bed is typically used by manydifferent patients, each having their own requirements and preferenceswith respect to support and comfort. A standard mattress cannot becustomized to accommodate these differing needs. The bed assembly 10 ofthe present invention, however, can be easily customized to provide thesupport surface 66 required by each patient. Furthermore, using thecolor coding, hospital staff can easily and quickly re-organize themattress support subassembly 14 to the preferences of new patients.

FIG. 5 best shows a partially exploded view of the mattress supportsubassembly 14 and the comfort panel 16. The comfort panel 16 is agenerally rectangular, resiliently compressible foam pad. The comfortpanel 16 has a length 74, a width 76, and a thickness 78. The length 74and width 76 of the comfort panel 16 are selected to generallycorrespond to the length 68 and width 70 of the support surface 66, suchthat the comfort panel 16 substantially covers the support surface 66when placed thereon. Preferably, the comfort panel 16 has a length 74 inthe range of 135 cm to 215 cm; and a width 76 in the range of 65 cm to210 cm. More preferably, the comfort panel 16 has a length 74 in therange of 190 cm to 205 cm; and a width 76 in the range of 95 cm to 190cm.

FIG. 6 best shows the mattress support subassembly 14 with the comfortpanel 16 in place above the support surface 66. The comfort panel 16allows for a more comfortable sleep by providing an extra layer ofcushion on top of the mattress segment members 26. The thickness 78 ofthe comfort panel 16 is selected to achieve the desired comfort.Preferably, the thickness 78 of the comfort panel 16 is in the range of1 cm to 10 cm. More preferably, the thickness 78 of the comfort panel 16is in the range of 2 cm to 6 cm.

FIG. 7A shows a cross-sectional view of the mattress support subassembly14 shown in FIG. 5, taken along the line 4-4′. As shown, the uppersurfaces 30 of the mattress segment members 26 are above the uppermostedge 64 of the sidewalls 54. This produces gaps the in support surface66 above the sidewalls 54, and results in the formation of an irregulartop surface 80.

FIG. 7B shows a cross-sectional view of the mattress support subassembly14 and comfort panel 16 shown in FIG. 6, taken along the line 6-6′. Asshown, the comfort panel 16 covers the gaps in the support surface 66,and produces a substantially uniform top surface 82. The substantiallyuniform top surface 82 allows for a more comfortable sleep, by providinga more even sleeping surface.

The cover 20 is best shown in FIG. 1. The cover 20 is made from awashable fabric and forms an outer layer of the bed assembly 10. Thecover 20 bears the brunt of the wear and tear of the use of the bedassembly 10, and can be removed, washed, and replaced as required. Asshown in FIG. 1, the cover 20 includes a bottom section 84; a topsection 86; and a top sheet 88. The bottom section 84 defines a cavitythat is sized and shaped to mateably receive a lower portion 90 of theframe 22 therein. The top section 86 defines a cavity that is sized andshaped to mateably receive the comfort panel 16, the support surface 66and an upper portion 92 of the frame 22. A first zipper system 94releasably connects the bottom 84 and top 86 sections of the cover 20.When the bottom 84 and top 86 sections are mounted over the comfortpanel 16 and the mattress support subassembly 14 and are connectedtogether with the first zipper 94, the comfort panel 16 and the mattresssupport subassembly 14 are completely encompassed by the cover 20 (bestshown in FIG. 2). When assembled in this way, the bottom 84 and top 86sections hold the comfort panel 16 and the mattress support subassembly14 together in a secure fashion. This allows the bed assembly 10 to bemoved, for example, without various parts such as the comfort panel 16and the mattress segment members 26 falling out of place. The topsection 86 can be easily disconnected from the bottom section 84 inorder to access the comfort panel 16 and the mattress supportsubassembly 14 and, for example, replace or reorganize the mattresssegment members 26.

FIG. 8 best shows the bed assembly 10 in a partially assembled state,showing the placement of the filter panel 18 and the top sheet 88. Thetop sheet 88 of the cover 20 is a rectangular sheet that is sized andshaped so as to substantially cover an uppermost surface 96 of the topsection 86. The uppermost surface 96 is a relatively flat, rectangularsurface that sits on top of the comfort panel 16. The uppermost surface96 has a length 98 and a width 100 that are substantially equal to thelength 74 and width 76 of the comfort panel 16, respectively. The topsheet 88 has a length 102 and a width 104 that are slightly less thanthe length 98 and width 100 of the uppermost surface 98, respectively.The top sheet 88 has a circumference 106, the entire circumference 106being releasably connectable to the top section 88 with a second zippersystem 108. When the top sheet 88 is connected to the top section 86, afilter compartment 110, sized and shaped to hold the filter panel 18, isformed therebetween (best shown in FIG. 2).

FIG. 9 best shows the filter panel 18. The filter panel 18 has a length112 and a width 114. The length 112 and width 114 of the filter panel 18are equal to, or slightly less than, the length 102 and width 104 of thetop sheet 88, respectively. This allows the filter panel 18 to sitsecurely below the top sheet 88 in the filter compartment 110. Thefilter panel 18 is a thin, pliable sheet that is dust mite resistant,and substantially impermeable to body fluids, bacteria, and parasites.The filter panel 18 is washable and reusable.

When the filter panel 18 is placed in the filter compartment 110, ithelps to protect the comfort panel 16 and the mattress supportsubassembly 14 from contamination with body fluids, such as blood, aswell as dust mites, parasites and bacteria. The top sheet 88 holds thefilter panel 18 in place between a person lying on the bed assembly 10and the mattress support subassembly 14. If the top sheet 88 and filterpanel 18 become contaminated with blood, the top sheet 88 can be easilydisconnected from the top section 86, and the top sheet 88 and filterpanel 18 can be easily removed and washed or replaced, without having towash or replace all of the cover 20. Furthermore, by protecting thecomfort panel 16 and the mattress support subassembly 14 fromcontamination, the filter panel 18 reduces the frequency with which thecomfort panel 16 and the mattress segment members 26 need to be replacedand washed or disposed of. This is particularly advantageous in thehospital setting, as hospital beds may be frequently contaminated bybody fluids such as blood.

FIG. 10 best shows a cross-sectional view of a mattress segment member26 according to an alternate embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, the mattress segment member 26 has a hollow spring core 116comprising a plurality of resiliently compressible springs or coils 118.The springs 118 are formed from coiled metal strands. The type of metaland the shape and size of the springs 118 are selected to provide thedesired firmness and support.

A first upholstery layer 120 sits immediately above the spring core 116,and a second upholstery layer 122 sits immediately below the spring core116. The first 120 and second 122 upholstery layers are made from asoft, resiliently compressible foam, and provide a cushioning layer togive the mattress segment member 26 the desired comfort. The mattresssegment member 26 can be placed in a support socket 52 with either thefirst 120 or second 122 upholstery layer facing upwards. If the firstupholstery layer 120 is placed facing upwards in the support socket 52,after prolonged use it may lose some resiliency and comfort maydecrease. The user of the bed assembly 10 can then flip the mattresssegment member 26 around so that the second upholstery layer 122 isfacing upwards. In this way, the useful life of the mattress segmentmember 26 can be increased.

The first upholster layer 120 has a thickness 124, and the secondupholster layer 122 has a thickness 126. The thicknesses 124 and 126 areselected to provide the desired softness and comfort. Optionally, thethicknesses 124 and 126 are different, such that the comfort provided bythe first 120 and second 122 upholstery layers differs. This allows forgreater customizability, as the user of the bed assembly 10 can chooseto use either the first 120 or second 122 upholstery layer in thesupport surface 66, according to the user's preferences.

A pliable fabric casing 128 completely encompasses the spring core 116and the first 120 and second 122 upholstery layers. The casing 128 helpsto protect the spring core 116 and the first 120 and second 122upholstery layers from damage by keeping them unexposed. The casing 128also provides a smooth outer surface to the mattress segment member 26,easing the insertion and removal of the mattress segment member 26 fromthe support sockets 52. Optionally, the casing 128 is made from amaterial that is impermeable to fluid. This is particularly advantageousin the hospital setting, as it helps protect the spring core 116 and thefirst 120 and second 122 upholstery layers from contamination with bodyfluids, such as blood, and allows for easier cleaning of the mattresssegment member 26.

In a preferred embodiment, the arrangement of mattress segment members26 in the mattress support subassembly 14 is selected in consultationwith a doctor, chiropractor, physiotherapist, or other qualified healthprofessional. The firmness profile of each support region 72 ispreferably selected in view of the unique shape and sleep requirementsof the user of that support region 72. Furthermore, the firmness profileof the support region 72 is preferably selected to provide optimalspinal alignment to the user while sleeping or resting.

FIG. 11 shows a human vertebral column 130. The vertebral column 130includes a number of distinct regions, including the cervical curve 132,wherein the cervical vertebrae 134 are located; the thoracic curve 136,wherein the thoracic vertebrae 138 are located; the lumbar curve 140,wherein the lumbar vertebrae 142 are located; and the sacral curve 144,wherein the sacrum 146 and coccygeal vertebrae 148 are located. In apreferred embodiment, the firmness profile of each support region 72 isselected to provide the optimal support to each region of the vertebralcolumn 130, including the cervical curve 132, the thoracic curve 136,the lumbar curve 140, and the sacral curve 144.

FIG. 12 shows a partial view of a preferred embodiment of the bedassembly 10. In this embodiment, the support region 72 includes amattress segment member 26 cc that is sized and arranged specifically toprovide support for the cervical curve 132, a mattress segment member 26tc that is sized and arranged specifically to provide support for thethoracic curve 136, a mattress segment member 261 c that is sized andarranged specifically to provide support for the lumbar curve 140, and amattress segment member 26 sc that is sized and arranged specifically toprovide support for the sacral curve 144. Preferably, the related degreeof firmness of each of the mattress segment members 26 cc, 26 tc, 261 c,and 26 sc is selected in consultation with a doctor or chiropractor toprovide the optimal firmness and support for the corresponding regionsof the vertebral column 130. For example, the user may, in consultationwith a doctor or chiropractor, decide that the mattress segment member261 c should be selected so as to provide firm support to the lumbarcurve 140, while the cervical curve 132, thoracic curve 136, and sacralcurve 144 should each have medium firm support.

Achieving such optimal support for the vertebral column 130 throughconsultation with a qualified health professional may, in some cases, beuseful in ameliorating and/or preventing back pain. The effect of thecustomized support region 72 on back pain and/or alignment of thevertebral column 130 can be tracked over time, and easily adjusted asnecessary. Furthermore, in embodiments of the bed assembly 10 whereinthere is a separate support region 72 for each of two different users,each support region 72 can be independently customized so as toaccommodate the needs of each user.

Although the first 120 and second 122 upholstery layers have beendescribed as made from a foam material, the invention is not so limited.The first 120 and second 122 upholstery layers could be made from anysuitable soft material, such as natural latex, wool, hay, animal hair,cotton, and other synthetic and natural fibres. Furthermore, the first120 and second 122 upholstery layers can each be made from a differentmaterial, or combination of materials. This provides for even greatercustomizability, allowing the user of the bed assembly 10 to create asupport surface 66 that uses whichever of the first 120 and second 122upholstery layers the user prefers.

Although the bed assembly 10 has been described as for use in a hospitalsetting, it could be used in other environments as well, such as aresidential setting, a nursing home, a university dormitory, or amilitary barracks. Various features of the bed assembly 10 can beadapted or omitted, and other features can be added, in order to bestsuit the environment in which the bed assembly 10 is to be used. Forexample, in a residential setting in which contamination with bodyfluids such as blood is less of a concern, the filter panel 18 can beomitted.

While the mattress segment members 26 have been described as made fromeither a foam material, or a spring core 116 with a fabric casing 128and first 120 and second 122 upholstery layers, the invention is not solimited. The mattress segment members 26 could be made from any suitablematerials for providing the desired comfort and support. For example,the mattress segment members 26 could be made from natural latex and/orwool. Furthermore, the mattress member array 24 could include mattresssegment members 26 made with different materials and combinations ofmaterials. The upper surface 30 of the mattress segment members 26 couldalso have contours or curves that provide added comfort or support toselected parts of the body.

Though the mattress segment members 26 are of substantially the samesize and shape in the preferred embodiments described above, this is notrequired. For example, the mattress member array 24 could includemattress segment members 26 of different sizes and shapes, withparticularly shaped mattress segment members 26 compatible with onlysome of the support sockets 52 in the mattress member receptacle 46.

Although the frame 22 has been described as made from wood, the frame 22could be made from any suitable material that is sufficiently solid tohold the mattress segment members 26 therein and support the weight ofthe person or persons using the bed assembly 10. For example, the frame22 could be made from metal, plastic, semi-soft foam materials, orcombinations thereof.

While the mattress segment members 26 have been described in thepreferred embodiments as generally rectangular in shape, in an alternateembodiment the mattress segment members 26 each have an upper lip thatis of greater width than the support sockets 52. The upper lip sits ontop of the sidewalls 54 of the support sockets 52 when a mattresssegment member 26 is placed therein. In this embodiment, the upper lipssubstantially fill the gaps which would otherwise exist above thesidewalls 54 of the support sockets 52 so as to provide a more uniformsurface.

In a further alternate embodiment, the sidewalls 54 of the supportsockets 52 are formed of a semi-soft material. In this embodiment,having some contact between the sleeping person and the uppermost edge64 of the sidewalls 54 does not substantially interfere with the desiredcomfort of the support surface 66, as the sidewalls 54 have some give.In this embodiment, the mattress segment members 26 are able to sitlower in the support sockets 52 to create for a more uniform surface.

Although the support sockets 52 have been described in the preferredembodiments as having a closed bottom 56, this feature is not necessary.For example, the support sockets 52 could instead have a bottom flangethat leaves an opening at the bottom of the support sockets 52. The sizeof this opening would be selected so that the mattress segment members26 could not pass through the opening and would be held in place in thesupport sockets 52. Alternatively, the support sockets 52 could have nobottom at all, with the mattress segment members 26 resting directly onthe base 48 below.

Though the frame 22 has been described in the preferred embodiments asincluding a base 48, this feature is not strictly necessary. Instead,the mattress member receptacle 46 could sit directly on the floor.Alternatively, the bed assembly 10 of the invention could be used inconjunction with a standard bed frame with legs. In this embodiment, thebed assembly 10 would sit on top of the standard bed frame, but thestandard bed frame would not by encompassed by the cover 20.

While the comfort panel 16 has been described in the preferredembodiments as having a uniform thickness 78, this is not necessary. Acomfort panel 16 of variable thickness 78 could also be used to achievethe desired comfort. The comfort panel 16 could further be made from anysuitable, resiliently compressible material.

The bed assembly 10 has been depicted in the preferred embodiments asshaped to provide a generally rectangular support surface 66.Alternatively, the bed assembly 10 could be shaped to provide a supportsurface 66 that is circular, square, oval, half moon, or any otherdesired shaped. The support sockets 52 and mattress segment members 26could likewise be provided with different shapes and sizes from thosedepicted in the preferred embodiments.

Although the cover 20 has been described in the preferred embodiments asusing zipper connectors 94 and 108, this is not required. Otherconnectors, such as hook and loop connectors, clips, and ties could alsobe used.

The preferred embodiments illustrated and described are in no wayintended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variationsmay be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

We claim:
 1. A bed assembly, comprising a frame and a mattress member array; said mattress member array comprising a plurality of discrete mattress segment members, each of the mattress segment members being resiliently compressible between an uncompressed state and an at least partially compressed state, and comprising: an upper portion with an upper surface, and a lower portion with a lower surface; said frame comprising a mattress member receptacle, said mattress member receptacle defining a plurality of upwardly opening support sockets having generally vertical sidewalls; said generally vertical sidewalls having an uppermost edge; said support sockets being shaped and sized to mateably receive the lower portion of an associated one of said mattress segment members therein, such that the upper surface of said associated mattress segment member is above the uppermost edge of the vertical sidewalls when said associated mattress segment member is in the at least partially compressed state; and wherein when the lower portion of said mattress segment members are positioned in the associated support sockets, the upper surface of the mattress segment members forms a support surface for supporting at least one person thereon.
 2. The bed assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of said mattress segment members is of a similar size and shape, so as to be interchangeable.
 3. The bed assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of said mattress segment members has a preselected degree of firmness, and at least two of the mattress segment members have different degrees of firmness; said support surface including one or more support regions.
 4. The bed assembly according to claim 3, wherein the support regions include: a first said support region for supporting a first person in a resting position reclined thereon, and a second said support region for supporting a second person in a resting position reclined thereon.
 5. The bed assembly according to claim 1, wherein spacing between adjacent ones of said mattress segment members forms the support surface as a non-continuous surface; said bed assembly further comprising a resiliently compressible comfort panel shaped and sized to substantially cover said non-continuous surface.
 6. The bed assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a removable cover, said cover being formed from a washable fabric and having releasably connectable top and bottom sections; said cover being shaped and sized to substantially contain said frame with said mattress segment members mounted therein.
 7. The bed assembly according to claim 6, wherein the cover further includes a top sheet releasably connectable to the top section and forming a filter compartment therebetween; said bed assembly further comprising a flexible filter panel sized for placement in said filter compartment; wherein the placement of the filter panel in the filter compartment protects the support surface from contamination by at least one of body fluids, dust mites, bacteria, and parasites.
 8. The bed assembly according to claim 3, wherein each of said support regions includes a cervical support area; a thoracic support area; a lumbar support area; and a sacral support area; and wherein the mattress segment members in each of the cervical support area, the thoracic support area, the lumbar support area, and the sacral support area are independently selectable.
 9. The bed assembly according to claim 1, wherein said frame further comprises a base, said base positioned below and supporting said mattress member receptacle.
 10. The bed assembly according to claim 1, wherein said bed assembly is a hospital bed assembly.
 11. A bed assembly, comprising a frame and a mattress member array; said mattress member array comprising a plurality of discrete mattress segment members; each of the mattress segment members being resiliently compressible between an uncompressed state and an at least partially compressed state, and comprising an upper portion with an upper surface and a lower portion with a lower surface; each of the mattress segment members having a preselected degree of firmness, and at least two of the mattress segment members having different degrees of firmness; said frame comprising a mattress member receptacle, said mattress member receptacle defining a plurality of upwardly opening support sockets having generally vertical sidewalls, said generally vertical sidewalls having an uppermost edge, said support sockets being shaped and sized to mateably receive therein in friction-fit the lower portion of one said mattress segment member therein, such that the upper surface of said one mattress segment member is above the uppermost edge of the vertical sidewalls when said one mattress segment member is in the at least partially compressed state; and wherein when the lower portion of said mattress segment members are positioned in the support sockets, the upper surface of the mattress segment members forms a support surface for supporting at least one person in a resting position reclined thereon.
 12. The bed assembly according to claim 11, wherein said support surface includes: a first support region for supporting a first person in a resting position reclined thereon; and a second support region for supporting a second person in a resting position reclined thereon.
 13. The bed assembly according to claim 11, wherein the support surface includes a cervical support area; a thoracic support area; a lumbar support area; and a sacral support area; and wherein the mattress segment members in each of the cervical support area, the thoracic support area, the lumbar support area, and the sacral support area are independently selectable.
 14. The bed assembly according to claim 11, further comprising a removable cover, said cover being formed from a washable fabric and having releasably connectable top and bottom sections; said cover being shaped and sized to substantially contain said frame with said mattress segment members mounted therein.
 15. The bed assembly according to claim 14, wherein the cover further includes a top sheet releasably connectable to the top section and forming a filter compartment therebetween; said bed assembly further comprising a flexible, washable, and reusable filter panel sized for placement in said filter compartment; wherein the placement of the filter panel in the filter compartment protects the support surface from contamination by at least one of body fluids, dust mites, bacteria, and parasites.
 16. The bed assembly according to claim 11, wherein each of said mattress segment members is of a similar size and shape, so as to be interchangeable.
 17. A bed assembly, comprising a frame, a mattress member array, a resiliently compressible comfort panel, a removable cover formed from a washable fabric, and a flexible filter panel; said mattress member array comprising a plurality of discrete mattress segment members; each of the mattress segment members being resiliently compressible between an uncompressed state and an at least partially compressed state, and comprising an upper portion with an upper surface and a lower portion with a lower surface; each of the mattress segment members being of a similar size and shape; and each of said mattress segment members having a preselected degree of firmness, at least two of the mattress segment members having different degrees of firmness; said frame comprising a base and a mattress member receptacle, said base positioned below and supporting said mattress member receptacle, said mattress member receptacle defining a plurality of upwardly opening support sockets having generally vertical sidewalls, said generally vertical sidewalls having an uppermost edge, said support sockets being shaped and sized to mateably receive the lower portion of any one of said mattress segment members therein, such that the upper surface of said one mattress segment member is above the uppermost edge of the vertical sidewalls when said one mattress segment member is in the at least partially compressed state; wherein when the lower portion of said mattress segment members are positioned in the support sockets, the upper surface of the mattress segment members forms a support surface for supporting at least one person thereon; said support surface including one or more support regions; said comfort panel shaped and sized to substantially cover said support surface when positioned thereon; said cover comprising a top section, a bottom section, and a top sheet, said top and bottom sections being releasably connectable to each other, said top sheet being releasably connectable to said top section and forming a filter compartment therebetween; said cover being shaped and sized to substantially contain said frame with said mattress segment members mounted therein and said comfort panel positioned thereon; said filter panel sized for placement in said filter compartment; wherein the placement of the filter panel in the filter compartment protects the comfort panel and the support surface from contamination by at least one of body fluids, dust mites, bacteria, and parasites.
 18. The bed assembly according to claim 17, wherein the support regions include: a first said support region for supporting a first person in a resting position reclined thereon, and a second said support region for supporting a second person in a resting position reclined thereon.
 19. The bed assembly according to claim 17, wherein each of the mattress segment members has an associated color indicating the degree of firmness of the mattress segment member.
 20. The bed assembly according to claim 17, wherein each of said support regions includes a cervical support area, a thoracic support area, a lumbar support area, and a sacral support area; and wherein the mattress segment members in each of the cervical support area, the thoracic support area, the lumbar support area, and the sacral support area are independently selectable. 